Cracking is a common issue with drum cymbals, and it can greatly affect their sound quality and durability. To extend the lifespan of your cymbals and minimize the risk of cracking, it’s important to follow proper care and handling practices. In this article, we will explore effective measures to prevent cymbals from cracking and ensure their longevity.
- Proper Technique: Developing and maintaining proper drumming technique is essential for preventing cymbal cracking. Here are some key considerations:
- Striking technique: Avoid striking the cymbals with excessive force. Allow the cymbal to resonate naturally by using controlled strokes. Remember that cymbals are meant to be played, not beaten.
- Angle of attack: Pay attention to the angle at which you strike the cymbals. Avoid hitting them at extreme angles, as this can increase stress on the metal and contribute to cracks. Aim for a moderate angle that allows the cymbal to vibrate freely.
- Relaxation and rebound: Use a relaxed grip and allow the stick to rebound naturally after each strike. Tension in your grip or excessively tight drumming can increase the impact on the cymbals, making them more susceptible to cracking.
- Regular Maintenance: Proper maintenance plays a crucial role in preventing cymbal cracking. Follow these maintenance tips:
- Clean cymbals regularly: Use a soft cloth and mild cymbal cleaner to remove dirt, fingerprints, and debris. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that can damage the cymbal’s surface.
- Avoid corrosive substances: Keep your cymbals away from corrosive substances such as household cleaning products, acidic foods, or liquids that can tarnish or corrode the metal.
- Store cymbals properly: When not in use, store your cymbals in a dry and controlled environment. Avoid stacking or piling them without protective padding, as this can cause scratches and potential cracks.
- Controlled Environment: Maintaining a stable environment can help prevent cymbal cracking. Consider the following factors:
- Temperature control: Avoid exposing your cymbals to extreme temperature fluctuations. Rapid changes in temperature can cause the metal to expand and contract, increasing the risk of cracking. Keep them in a controlled environment with consistent temperature levels.
- Humidity control: High humidity levels can lead to corrosion and weakening of the cymbal metal over time. Use dehumidifiers or ensure proper ventilation to maintain a moderate humidity level.
- Cymbal Selection: Choose cymbals that are appropriate for your playing style, genre, and volume requirements. Thicker and heavier cymbals generally have more durability and are better suited for heavy hitters or louder music styles. Consider the characteristics of the cymbals and match them to your specific playing needs to reduce the risk of cracking.
- Rotate and Rest Cymbals: To minimize stress on specific cymbals, regularly rotate them in your setup. This helps distribute the playing load evenly across all cymbals, reducing the risk of overuse and potential cracking. Additionally, allow your cymbals to rest between practice sessions and performances, giving them time to cool down and recover their natural resonance.
Conclusion:
Preventing cymbal cracking requires a combination of proper technique, regular maintenance, controlled environmental conditions, appropriate cymbal selection, and careful rotation and rest. By using controlled strokes, maintaining cleanliness, avoiding corrosive substances, and storing cymbals properly, you can extend their lifespan and preserve their sound quality. Additionally, practicing relaxation and rebound, selecting cymbals suitable for your playing style, and providing rest periods for your cymbals are crucial for preventing cracking. By implementing these preventive measures, you can enjoy your cymbals for longer periods without the worry of cracks affecting their performance.
